My Coldhearted Husband’s Regret

Niall's eyes swept across the room but deliberately avoided meeting Veronica's gaze. Her apology clearly excluded one particular person in attendance.

Maverick remained focused on the business at hand, missing these subtle social dynamics entirely. He responded with casual dismissal, "A brief delay means nothing. We can proceed."

"How understanding of you, Mr. Harris." Dario rose from his chair, ice coating every word. "Since we've finally assembled our complete party, perhaps we can stop wasting precious time and begin."

Cullen's professional mask never slipped as he acknowledged the criticism. "You're absolutely right, Mr. Reid. The delay was inexcusable on our part. Please, take the lead."

Dario released a sharp breath of disdain, then reached for Veronica's arm with possessive authority, guiding her toward the exit before anyone else could move.

Cullen's attention lingered momentarily on how protectively Dario positioned himself beside Veronica, but he forced his gaze elsewhere with practiced indifference, as though the sight meant absolutely nothing to him.

Marco, however, continued studying the pair with obvious curiosity.

When the group reached the testing facility, Cullen and Niall naturally commanded the spotlight through their mere presence.

At the track's edge, the technical staff approached with obvious deference. "Mr. Dennis, Ms. Crystal, all systems are operational and ready for your inspection."

Their behavior left no doubt about Niall's perceived status as the future Mrs. Dennis.

"Begin the demonstration," Cullen commanded with quiet authority.

"Immediately, sir."

The monitoring station provided crystal-clear views of every aspect of the vehicle's performance during the trial run.

Once their professional test driver completed the circuit successfully, the staff presented an invitation. "Would Mr. Dennis and Ms. Crystal care to experience the vehicle personally?"

Cullen accepted without hesitation, and soon he and Niall were seated together in the prototype.

Through the surveillance feeds, everyone could observe their animated conversation. The chemistry between them was unmistakable as their eyes met repeatedly, creating an intimate bubble that seemed to exclude the rest of the world.

Veronica maintained her focus on the monitors without flinching, her features revealing nothing of her inner thoughts.

Dario made no attempt to hide his revulsion at the display.

Nate felt the urge to participate and started approaching Marco with his suggestion when Bonnie intercepted him smoothly. "Mr. Valerie, perhaps we could take a turn together and discuss—"

"Count me out," Marco interrupted with brutal efficiency. "The rest of you can handle the entertainment portion."

Bonnie's rehearsed words died in her throat.

Vincent turned his attention to the Reid Industries representatives. "Mr. Reid, Ms. Murray, would you be interested in testing the vehicle yourselves?"

Both Veronica and Dario possessed deeper technical knowledge about the car's specifications than most of Stellar's own engineering team. Originally, they had planned to conduct their own evaluation, but the morning's tensions had left them both thoroughly irritated and ready to leave.

Dario responded with obvious contempt. "We'll pass."

Veronica surprised him by moving closer and speaking quietly about the engine's technical specifications. Then she asked with genuine interest, "Are you certain you want to miss this opportunity?"

Dario studied her with suspicion. "How did you acquire such detailed information?"

Veronica brushed her fingertip against her nose in a gesture of mild embarrassment. "I managed to review some of their technical documents earlier when they brought them over." Her exceptional memory had always been an advantage in situations like this.

Dario felt his irritation dissolving instantly. "Fine. We'll examine it together and create our own version when we return to the office."

"Perfect." She took his hand and led him toward the waiting vehicle.

Thirty minutes later, their evaluation was complete.

Cullen addressed the entire group with diplomatic courtesy. "I want to thank everyone for their valuable time today. Perhaps we could continue our discussions over dinner?"

"Excellent suggestion," Maverick replied immediately.

Dario responded with undisguised scorn, his voice flat and final. "Unfortunately, we have pressing obligations elsewhere. Please enjoy your meal without us. Our schedule demands we leave immediately."

Cullen accepted the rejection gracefully. "Of course. We'll arrange something more convenient in the future." He gestured toward Vincent. "Please escort Mr. Reid and Ms. Murray to their vehicle."

Vincent responded with eager compliance. "Absolutely, Mr. Dennis."

Dario allowed his lips to curve in a mocking smile but offered no verbal response. He simply guided Veronica toward the exit with decisive steps.

As they departed, Kolton leaned closer to Maverick and spoke in hushed tones. "Is it just my imagination, or does Dario seem to harbor genuine hostility toward Mr. Dennis and his entire operation?"

Maverick had already noticed similar tension during their previous encounter at this facility.

Initially, he had dismissed it as his own misinterpretation, assuming that Dario simply possessed an naturally abrasive personality in professional settings.

However, today's interactions had confirmed his earlier suspicions beyond any reasonable doubt.